Durand, MI

Durand, Michigan is a small city located in Shiawassee County. It was first settled in 1836 by Henry S. Durand, a prominent businessman from New York. Durand purchased a large tract of land with the intention of establishing a railroad junction in the area.

In 1856, the Flint and Pere Marquette Railway Company built a line through Durand, connecting Flint and Saginaw. This development played a vital role in the growth of the town, as it became a major transportation hub. The railway attracted many businesses and residents to Durand, leading to its incorporation as a village in 1873.

Durand continued to prosper in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The railroad industry was a significant source of employment, and the city became known as the "Railroad Capital of Michigan." The construction of a major rail yard in the late 19th century further cemented Durand's reputation as an important railroad junction.

In 1930, Durand officially became a city. Despite the economic challenges brought about by the Great Depression and the decline of the railway industry, Durand managed to sustain its growth. The city's strategic location along major transportation routes, such as U.S. Route 13 and Interstate 69, continued to contribute to its development.

Today, Durand remains a small but vibrant city with a strong sense of history. It has preserved several historic buildings and landmarks, including the Durand Union Station, which was built in 1903 and now serves as the Durand Welcome Center and Railroad Museum. The museum showcases Durand's rich railroad heritage and is a popular attraction for visitors.

Durand is also known for its annual festival called "Railroad Days." Held every May, this event celebrates the city's ties to the railroad industry and features various activities, including parades, train rides, and live music.

Overall, Durand's history is closely tied to its role as a railroad junction and its ability to adapt to changing economic circumstances. Despite challenges, the city has maintained its charm and continues to be a significant part of Michigan's transportation network.

Durand Union Station

A historic railway station that now houses a museum featuring exhibits on rail history.

Shiawassee Arts Center

A gallery showcasing local artwork and hosting various art events and exhibitions.

Durand East Lansing Rail Trail

A scenic trail for walking, biking, or jogging that spans over 18 miles.

Dutch Hollow Golf Course

A well-maintained 18-hole golf course perfect for golf enthusiasts.

Durand Railroad Days Festival

An annual event that celebrates the town's rich railroad heritage with parades, live music, carnival rides, and more.

The Durand Depot

A restored train depot with a visitor center and a gift shop, offering information on Durand's history and railroads.

McCurdy Park

A beautiful park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails, ideal for outdoor activities and family gatherings.

Durand Farmers Market

A weekly market where locals and visitors can purchase fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts from local vendors.

Shiawassee Arts Council Performance Series

A series of live performances including theatre, music, dance, and comedy shows.

Durand Community Pool

A public pool facility for swimming and leisure activities, particularly enjoyable during the warm summer months.

Durand, MI experiences a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters in Durand are cold, with temperatures often below freezing. The average low temperature in January, the coldest month, is around 14°F (-10°C), while the high temperatures can reach around 30°F (-1°C). Snowfall is common during the winter season.

Spring in Durand is generally mild, with temperatures gradually warming up. March and April can see some snowfall, but as the season progresses, temperatures rise. The average high in May, the warmest month of spring, can reach around 70°F (21°C).

Summer in Durand is warm and sometimes humid. June, July, and August are the hottest months, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-70s°F (around 24°C) in June to the mid-80s°F (around 29°C) in July and August. Summer also brings occasional thunderstorms and periods of rain.

Fall in Durand is characterized by mild temperatures and vibrant foliage. September is still warm, with highs in the mid-70s°F (around 24°C), but temperatures gradually drop as the season progresses. October and November see average highs in the mid-50s°F (around 13°C) and mid-40s°F (around 7°C) respectively.

Overall, Durand experiences the typical climate of the Midwest region, with cold winters, warm summers, and transitional seasons in between.

Durand is a small city located in Shiawassee County, Michigan. While it is relatively small, it still has a few distinct neighborhoods that offer unique characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the neighborhoods you can find in Durand:

Downtown Durand

The heart of the city, downtown Durand offers a charming and historic atmosphere. It features a mix of local businesses, boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes. Downtown Durand is known for its community events, such as festivals and parades, which attract both residents and visitors.

Riverside

Situated along the Shiawassee River, the Riverside neighborhood provides beautiful views and a tranquil environment. Many homes in this area have riverfront access, making it an attractive destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Riverside is known for its scenic parks, walking trails, and recreational activities like fishing and kayaking.

East Durand

Located on the eastern side of the city, East Durand is primarily a residential area. It offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and townhouses. The neighborhood is known for its quiet streets and friendly community atmosphere, making it an ideal place for families or those seeking a peaceful living environment.

West Durand

Situated on the western side of the city, West Durand is also largely residential. This neighborhood offers a mix of housing styles, including historic homes and more modern developments. West Durand is close to some of the city's amenities, such as schools, parks, and shopping centers, making it a convenient place to live.

Country Estates

Located on the outskirts of Durand, the Country Estates neighborhood offers a more rural and country-style living environment. This area is characterized by larger properties with spacious yards, giving residents plenty of space and privacy. Country Estates is popular among those looking for a more secluded and peaceful setting while still being within close proximity to Durand's amenities.

Overall, Durand's different neighborhoods provide a range of living options, from bustling downtown areas to peaceful riverfront properties and rural settings. Whether you're seeking a vibrant city atmosphere or a quieter residential area, Durand has something to offer for various preferences and lifestyles.